Moral Psychology

Moral psychology is a major within F&M’s Scientific and Philosophical Studies of Mind program. Employing a mixture of philosophy, psychology, sociology, government, religious studies, and more, you’ll explore questions such as: What does it take for a life to be significant or meaningful? Is moral sense innate or learned? How do humans assess others’ behavior and determine punishment for certain actions? You’ll build a perspective of moral psychology partly informed by cognitive science, bridging sciences and humanities to delve into the inner workings of the mind, and form a sturdy foundation of understanding that no single discipline alone could provide.

By the time you graduate, you will have acquired: 

• An understanding of the major theories in moral psychology
• A broad perspective of the nature of the mind informed by both moral psychology and cognitive science
• An understanding of the complexity of the approaches and perspectives involved in studying the nature and function of the mind
• The ability to construct, evaluate, and critique philosophical arguments and accounts
• Skills in scientific research, including the ability to form research questions, collect data, and analyze and interpret results
• The ability to think, write, and speak clearly and logically

Curious to see what a course in moral psychology is like? From psychology to government and from sociology to philosophy, check out our course catalog to see how moral psychology courses bridge the sciences and humanities.

In moral psychology, you’ll find faculty who are energized and invigorated by blending fields of study in cutting-edge scholarship, discussion, and research — and who are just as excited to bring you aboard. Our professors are committed to extending your learning beyond the classroom, helping you discover research and study-abroad opportunities to hone your skills in critical thinking and philosophical analysis. 

Research Opportunities

You’ll find that all students at F&M enjoy extraordinary opportunities to engage in research and independent study. As a moral psychology major, you can join your professors’ research projects, leaving your footprint on what often are years-long endeavors. 
Explore research at F&M

Off-Campus Study

Previous moral psychology majors have taken courses abroad, including studying cognitive science in Hungary and child development in Denmark. They have also spent semesters in Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland.
Explore off-campus study at F&M

What can you do with a degree in moral psychology? Whether you choose to enter graduate school or begin your chosen career, the distinct combination of scientific and humanistic skills you’ll gain by studying moral psychology at F&M — including critical and creative thought, analysis and interpretation of data and theory, and the ability to communicate, write, debate and listen — will help you develop useful and productive skills highly valuable for any post-graduate pursuit.